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Brosque swaps Japan for UAE

Socceroos striker Alex Brosque has sealed a move to the United Arab Emirates, with Al Ain confirming the deal on their website.

Brosque has started Australia's past seven national team matches and has had a solid spell in Japan's J. League with Shimizu S-Pulse since leaving Sydney FC and the A-League in January, 2011.

Al Ain announced Brosque had agreed to a two-year contract on Thursday with the 28-year-old pictured on their website holding his new club's shirt.

"We are delighted to announce the signing of Alex Brosque," a spokesman from Al Ain told Sport360.

"He fits the bill of exactly what we have been looking for.

"He is a quality player and has a proven track record in Asian football.

"He creates as well as scores goals and we firmly believe he will be a big asset for the club."

Brosque made his name in the A-League as a player who could play across the front line but has reportedly played in midfield during his time with Shimizu.

The left-footer scored 17 goals and provided five assists in his 90 games for the J. League club and remains Socceroos manager Holger Osieck's preferred option as striker.

Al Ain have revealed Brosque is likely to play in the forward third and could make his debut for the club within a fortnight, although the Australian forward has now gone back to Japan to get ready for the move to the UAE.

"He is an exciting player who can play in a number of positions," Al Ain's spokesman said.

"He gives the coach greater tactical flexibility and allow him to come up with difference game plans for different opposition."

Al Ain, who won the UAE Pro League last season, lost their opening game of the new campaign on Sunday, going down 6-3 at home to visitors Al Ahli.

The reigning UAE Pro League-champions have qualified for the 2013 AFC Champions League, which apparently played a role in Brosque's decision after his experience in the continental competition with Sydney FC.